July 4th is a date marked by fireworks, family gatherings, and a deep sense of national pride in the United States. However, for millions of immigrants who have made this country their home, Independence Day evokes a unique and deeply emotional perspective: the journey from feeling like mere spectators to becoming an active part of the nation's history.

In a recent interview titled "The Voices of July 4th," Celika Preciado and Oscar Gomez shared how their perception of this holiday has evolved over the years and what freedom means to them.

First Impressions: A Spectacle of Unity
For many immigrants, the first contact with July 4th leaves an indelible mark. Celika Preciado remembers that her first celebration was at the age of 15. What impacted her the most was not just the fireworks, but seeing how families gathered to socialize, eat, and play together.

For his part, Oscar Gomez describes a similar experience, marveling at a family and community coexistence that, as he explains, is difficult to find in many Latin American countries. For him, witnessing the parades and preparations made him feel "like a 14 or 15-year-old boy," amazed by the vibrant energy of the celebration.

The "Impostor Syndrome" and the Path to Citizenship
Celebrating someone else's independence can initially generate mixed feelings. Preciado confesses that for a long time he felt like an "impostor," celebrating something he felt still didn't belong to him, despite wishing with all his heart to be part of it. Gomez agrees when recalling his early years as an immigrant, describing himself as a mere "spectator" who longed to fully integrate into the country that had welcomed and protected him.

That feeling changed drastically upon attaining U.S. citizenship. Gomez remembers with tears in her eyes the month of April 2019, describing it as the most wonderful day of her life when she completed her naturalization process. For Preciado, becoming a citizen transformed the meaning of national symbols: "I see our flag and feel an enormous pride..." It reminds me that all my mother's effort and sacrifices were not in vain.

What Does Freedom Mean?
When questioned about the concept of freedom, both offered views that complement the legal order with human rights. For Preciado, freedom translates into the autonomy to make decisions about one's own life, freedom of expression, freedom of religion, equality before the law, and, fundamentally, the right to vote.

Gomez, on the other hand, emphasizes that true American freedom should not be confused with "licentiousness." He emphasizes that the greatness of the country lies in being a nation under laws and strict order. "As long as you abide by those laws... you won't have any problems," he states, inviting the community to appreciate the job opportunities and abundance that the United States offers in comparison to the realities of their home countries.

A Message of Hope
Despite the current challenges the country may face, the voices of these citizens reflect an unwavering optimism. With notable emotion, Preciado concludes by reminding us that the United States remains the land of dreams and opportunities. For her, the true strength of the nation lies in three fundamental pillars that must be preserved: unity, humanity, and opportunity for all.

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